#818 Requiems: “Ghost Band” and “Grimm’s Assistant”

Ghost Band - Grimm's Assistant

If you’ve ever felt like your city left you before you left your city, Jason McNamara’s Ghost Band is for you. Tim and Emmet discuss this post-apocalyptic look at San Francisco. Jason then taps in to explain the inspiration for the book and what happened to artist Vincent Gladnick 2/3 of the way through.

Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the Grim Reaper has an apprentice, and he saves a girl’s life — temporarily. Grimm’s Assistant, by Mamode Ogbewele and Chigozie Amadi, might be a little too stingy with important story info, but sharp art and interesting ideas make it worth Tim and Jason’s time reviewing it.

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“Avengers: Endgame” (2019)

Avengers: Endgame

Tim gets ever closer to catching up with the MCU! Tim and Mulele discuss Avengers: Endgame‘s time-travel explanation (and problems), Captain Marvel’s relative irrelevance to the film, how this movie set the stage for the upcoming TV shows, and much more. (Originally published on Patreon March 14, 2020)

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#437 “Real” is a slam dunk

Real

FLASHBACK! Sports have rarely been subject matter for comics in the US; perhaps comics’ inherent static-ness has seemed antithetical to an activity with so much movement. But Japan has seen comics about various sports, and some of them have been quite popular, even iconic.

Takehiko Inoue’s Real is not only about basketball, but about physical handicaps, relationships, and more. Kumar and Ilango find a whole lot to like about it — including the satisfying ways in which it translates sports action to the comics page. (Originally published February 16, 2015.)

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From Laughs to Heroics: Plastic Man a Flexible Hero for the Modern Age – by Hernando Diaz

Plastic Man is truly one of the most unique and entertaining characters in the superhero landscape. He was created by Jack Cole in 1941. This particular superhero was one of the first to incorporate humor into mainstream action storytelling as a genuine hero whose appeal transcends generations.

Patrick “Eel” O’Brian, aka Plastic Man, is apart from other superheroes in his extraordinary ability to stretch, mold, and reshape his body into virtually any form. This elasticity offers endless possibilities for visual creativity, and the character’s antics often play out in hilarious, unexpected ways. Whether he’s transforming into a rocket to fly across the sky or an amusing animal to surprise his enemies, Plastic Man’s powers make every encounter exciting and unpredictable.

In fact, he shines particularly in his interactions with other heroes and villains. Often portrayed with a lighthearted sense of humor, Plastic Man brings a refreshing comic relief to the darker narratives of the DC Universe. His witty banter, self-deprecating humor, and playful nature create a good balance against the more serious tones found in many comics series. Even when he’s up against formidable foes, the levity he brings makes for a dynamic reading experience.

However, some might argue that the comedic tone and whimsical visual style can detract from the more serious aspects of superhero storytelling. For those who prefer traditional narratives centered around grim heroism and moral dilemmas, Plastic Man may seem a bit too irreverent. Yet, it’s this very irreverence that makes him a beloved character in his own right; he challenges the conventional standards of heroism and shows that saving the day can also be a lot of fun.

Artistic interpretations of Plastic Man have varied widely over the years, but the character’s rubbery aesthetic is always vibrant and imaginative. Whether illustrated in a classic style or with a modern twist, his visuals are a delight to fans of all ages.

Here are some of the principal Powers and Abilities that this interesting superhero has:

  • Density Control: Plastic Man can change his density at will; becoming as dense as a rock or as flexible as a rubber band.
  • Malleability : He can stretch his limbs and body to superhuman lengths and sizes.
  • Size Alteration: Another interesting ability is size alteration. He can shrink himself down to a few inches tall.
  • Shape-Shifting: Plastic Man can contort his body into various positions and sizes impossible for ordinary humans, such as being entirely flat so that he can slip under a door or using his fingers to pick conventional locks.
  • Color Change: The only limitation that this superheroe has relates to color, which he can´t change without intense concentration.
  • Superhuman Agility: These stretching powers grant Plastic Man heightened agility enabling him flexibility and coordination.
  • Ultrasonic Detection: His body will start to “ripple” when an ultrasonic frequency is triggered.
  • Regeneration: Plastic Man is able to regenerate and assimilate lost or damaged tissue, although he needs to be reasonably intact for this process to begin.
  • Telepathic Immunity: Plastic Man’s mind is no longer organic. This is untouchable by telepathy.
  • Immortality: He doesn´t appear his age; if he does, it is at a rate far slower than that of normal human beings.

Plastic Man, a hero who can save the day and make you chuckle at the same time.

Critiquing Comics #240: “The Night Brigade” and “Joe Mallard”

Night Brigade - Joe Mallard

Most Americans know little about the Crimean War (1853-1856). Adam McGovern and Bruno Letizia’s The Night Brigade may go some way toward filling us in on that conflict, and it does give us several historical figures, including Florence Nightingale – but it also features a werewolf. Tim and Adam critique.

Asante Amani‘s Joe Mallard gives us short detective stories that feel a bit like Matt Kindt’s work. Tim and Jason are hoping for more!

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#817 Jack Kirby’s “Eternals”, 1977 Annual + #13: Fun “Eternals” stories with few Eternals

Eternals Annual

We left the Eternals joined together in the Unimind. The 1977 Annual doesn’t clearly fit into continuity, but features only one Eternal, Thena, together with Deviants Karkas and the Reject against a time-traveling threat! Back in the regular series, issue 13 gives us exactly two Eternals, trying to stop a Deviant attack on the Celestials. In spite of the lack of Eternals, these are two of the most fun issues Tim and Emmet have read yet!

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The Allure of the Dark Side: Exploring the Anti-Hero Archetype — by Hernando Diaz

The anti-hero plays a significant role in storytelling for several reasons: they enrich narratives and deepen character development, adding depth and complexity to storytelling.

Feelings of redemption and identity crises are parts of their arcs. We examine how this journey reflects internal struggles as we explore characters like Wolverine and Harley Quinn, who grapple with their pasts while seeking a sense of belonging or purpose. Another important characteristic is their realistic motivations, such as revenge, personal loss, or a desire for justice, that sometimes clouds their judgment and can create a more engaging narrative, as readers witness the character’s growth. Continue reading The Allure of the Dark Side: Exploring the Anti-Hero Archetype — by Hernando Diaz

#816 Chester Brown interview: “Paying for It,” the movie

Chester Brown’s work has come up on this show a number of times over the years. We’ve discussed Ed the Happy Clown, Louis Riel, and Paying for It. He’s actually published 10 graphic novels since 1989, some of which are collections of his comics series. In connection with the recent premiere of the movie version of Paying for It at the Toronto International Film Festival, our own Koom got a chance to interview Brown for this week’s show!

Check out Koom’s novel, Killing Shakespeare

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Behind the Panels: Journey of a Comic Creator — by Hernando Diaz

In the dark light of a cluttered room, surrounded by stacks of sketchpads and half-finished sketches, the spark of creation flickers like the neon glow of a city skyline at dusk. It’s a passion that boils in the veins, a relentless urge to breathe life into ink and paper. Each panel is a heartbeat, every dialogue a pulse, telling stories that dart and weave through the imagination like superhéroes, héroes, stories soaring through a kaleidoscope of worlds. Here, in this sanctuary of creativity, ideas collide with inspiration, forging characters that leap off the page and adventures that beckon readers to turn the page, hungry for more. The thrill of comic book creation isn’t just about the art; it’s about capturing the essence of what it means to dream, to struggle, and to triumph—all with a splash of color and a healthy dose of humor.

That introduction reminds me of Will Eisner, who created one of the most interesting books about making comics when Poorhouse Press published Comics and Sequential Art in 1985. In every single chapter, Eisner covers different topics and includes some of his own vision to provide examples that are very helpful to new creators. His guide defines comics as a form of reading and describes how the medium juxtaposes words and images, how panel structure plays with time, and the forms sequential art can take. It’s a book that is really important to check out so you can understand these first steps in your personal creation.

Panel to panel, I identified and understood some important topics that all new creators must keep in mind in the moment to create a new comic book:

  1. Character Development: Characters are the lifeblood of any comic book, driving the narrative forward and captivating readers with their personalities, motivations, and relationships. They must be distinct and memorable, with traits that resonate with the audience.
  2. Visual Style: This involves determining the artistic approach, such as the use of color palettes, line work, and panel layouts, to evoke the desired mood and enhance the storytelling.
  3. Scriptwriting: At the heart of every comic book lies the script, a detailed written document that outlines the dialogue, narration, and actions of each panel and page. In a full script, the writer provides detailed descriptions of each panel, including dialogue, narration, and visual cues. The scriptwriting requires careful attention to pacing, characterization, and dialogue, ensuring that the story unfolds in a compelling and engaging manner.
  4. Environment and Background Design: These play a crucial role in setting the scene and establishing the mood of the story. Environment and background design involves creating detailed and immersive settings that enhance the narrative and provide context for the action. Artists must consider factors such as architecture, landscape, lighting, and atmosphere to create believable and visually stunning environments.
  5. Proofreading and Revision: Once the lettering is complete, the final step is proofreading and revision, to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency. Creators carefully review the text for spelling errors, grammatical mistakes, and formatting inconsistencies. It’s essential to pay attention to detail during this stage, as even minor errors can detract from the reader’s immersion in the story.

I also want to recommend this Facebook group of creators called Indie Comic Source, a group with thousands of members. It offers the opportunity to interact with fellow creators, and that’s something even the most independent writers and artists need if they want to turn a passion into a profession.

In conclusion, the passion to create comic books is a powerful force that transcends mere ink and paper; it’s a celebration of storytelling, artistry, and connection. Each panel is a window into new worlds, where heroes rise, villains fall, and every turn of the page sparks the imagination. For creators, it’s a journey that requires not just talent, but an unwavering dedication to conveying emotions and experiences that resonate with readers. The thrill of bringing characters to life, crafting intricate plots, and exploring the limitless potential of the medium fuels our desire to inspire, entertain, and challenge perspectives. It is in the vibrant colors, dynamic lines, and compelling narratives that we find our voices, and in the hands of our readers, we discover the true magic of comic books: the ability to forge connections that linger long after the last page is turned. As we continue to nurture this passion, we pave the way for future generations of creators and fans, ensuring that the art of comics storytelling remains alive and vibrant for years to come.

#593 “Reading ‘Nancy’”, plus “Cat and Mouse”!

How to Read Nancy

FLASHBACK! A comic strip gag can be a deceptively simple thing. Once you take it apart — “deconstruct” it, one might say — you find that it actually has many moving parts.

Click to enlarge

Paul Karasik and Mark Newgarden‘s How to Read “Nancy” takes a close look at each of those parts — as well as arguing persuasively for Bushmiller’s underrated artistic chops, and giving us some comic-strip history as well. Tim and Patrick review.

Cat and Mouse

PLUS: Roland Mann, Dean Zachary, and Kevin Gallegly join Tim to talk about the return of Cat and Mouse! (Originally published May 21, 2018.)

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